winemaker's notes:
Rochioli Vineyards has definitely earned its place in the pantheon of stellar winemaking. Year after year, wines coming from the Rochioli vineyards rank at the top of virtually every winelover's wish list. After his father spent more than a decade farming the land, Joe Rochioli purchased the vineyards in the late 1950s. He was certain that specific varietals would do best in the unique microclimate of the Russian River Valley. When his son, Tom, began to produce the first Rochioli wines in the mid 1980s, the immediate results were spectacular. The outstanding quality of the Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, which come from this vineyard, made it clear that the Rochiolis were outstanding winemakers.
The 161-acre Rochioli vineyard is exceptional. When one combines great vineyards with great farming practices, the obvious result is great wine grapes, and exceptional wines. The Rochiolis still sell some of their grapes to other noted Pinot Noir winemakers. Currently, Tom Rochioli makes about 10,000 cases of estate wine per year. Most winelovers would certainly appreciate having more of these outstanding wines available for their tables and cellars.